November 4, 2024
LXVII — Tajana Tokyo
Tajana Tokyo is a Sierra Leonean British director.

Below are Tajana’s selects for influential works:

Movies
Human Traffic by Justin Kerrigan
UK & Ireland
1999

I just love it… The way it’s shot, the colors, the humor—I loveee all the surrealism, but also the simplicity of the story. A group of friends partying over a weekend. It’s really one of my faves.

Movies
Challengers by Luca Guadagnino
2024

I adored it… The music, the characters—it had such an interesting dynamic. I really enjoyed how it was told through a common interest, tennis, even though it wasn’t really about tennis. I’m obsessed with body language, and lots was expressed through the body. So much of the movement, even in conversation, felt choreographed, or shall I say, considered. I was talking about it for weeks after, I love it when I feel that moved.

Music Video
‘Eusexua’ FKA twigs by Jordan Hemingway
2024

I was blown away. As a movement artist myself, it was so impressive. The choreography is incredible, and the dancers featured are some of the best globally. The styling, the colour grade, the location, and the transition to the second half of the visual were all super cool. The camera work and consideration to really showcase the movement in the best way. I adored it—every moment felt like a feast.

Music Video
‘Attention’ Doja Cat by Tanu Muino
2023

I really love her performance intention, her flow, and its simplicity… I really love performance; it truly is an art, and sometimes you don’t need all the crazy bells and whistles when the artist can really carry it. It’s a video that just makes me feel all the feels.

Narrative Short
Honesty by Roxy Rezvany
2021

Love the simplicity and the process of direction. Having been talent myself for many years, I resonate with the journey of a character or an intention. It’s one of the things I love about directing: the fine details that change how someone delivers something, as well as how that can differ depending on who is giving the direction. Really cool short film, one of my favorites.

Campaign
The Venetian Resort by Kinopravda
2019

Really love the playful energy and colors of this. Super considered and fun.

Narrative Short
Mandem by John Ogunmuyiwa
2020

Simple but had me at go. Their dynamic felt familiar too—it has a simplicity and honesty that is super engaging. I love it when shorts feel like a true moment in time.

PEOPLE IN THIS ARTICLE
Justin Kerrigan
Featured
Roxy Rezvany
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Kinopravda
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John Ogunmuyiwa
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